Synthetic human growth hormone is a human growth hormone (HGH) supplement that is derived in a laboratory rather than naturally produced by the body. Growth hormone is normally produced by the pituitary gland. The body uses it to build muscles, burn fat, create healthy tissues, and improve organ function. Older people and those with pituitary gland issues require synthetic hormones to supplement the lack of natural HGH produced by the body. Due to its restorative properties, it has been used in anti-aging therapy and bodybuilding supplements.
Although it is now synonymous with anti-aging and the bodybuilding cycle, synthetic human growth hormone was initially developed to remedy growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Typically afflicting children, this condition is caused by rare genetic problems or an abnormal pituitary gland. GHD inhibits the growth of muscle and bones and also delays puberty; the condition extends into adulthood. Synthetic supplements combat GHD by increasing the presence of growth hormone in the body so that children suffering from this condition are able to develop at a normal rate while adults are able to increase and maintain muscle mass.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration has only approved synthetic human growth hormone to treat conditions that impede development. People also use it for its anabolic agents in order to negate the effects of aging, however. Since the hormone bolsters cell production, wrinkled or damaged skin may be restored by cells that have been replenished with it. Osteoporosis, a condition that primarily afflicts the elderly and by causing brittle bones, is also combated with synthetic growth hormone because it fortifies bones and increases bone density.
The metabolic effects of synthetic human growth hormone make the supplement appealing to athletes and bodybuilders as well. Growth hormone counteracts the body’s natural tendency to store glucose as fat and instead forces the body to burn excess glucose as energy. This results in lower body fat and improved athletic performance. In addition to producing skin cells, it aids the body in creating more muscle cells. As a result, weightlifters and athletes are able to increase their muscle mass at a faster rate.
Synthetic human growth hormone is not devoid of side effects. Increased hormone production makes recipients of the injections susceptible to mood swings and increases their irritability. Muscle and joint pain may result from the higher presence of muscle cells as well. The hormone production and growth associated with this supplement may also increase the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke in some people.